After sitting out the 2024 NFL season due to injury, free-agent wide receiver Chase Claypool is seeking another opportunity.
Claypool signed with the Buffalo Bills last offseason but suffered a season-ending toe injury in August, after which the Bills released him with an injury settlement.
With nearly a fully year to recover and rehab from his injury, Claypool believes he can still contribute to an NFL team.
“I tore a ligament and a tendon in my second toe and have been rehabbing, working out, and recovering every day for the past year,” Claypool posted on Instagram. “I am back to being the strongest and fastest I’ve ever been and couldn’t be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves.
“I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what’s been suppressed these last two years.”
Despite things not working out in his favor with the Bills, Claypool thanked quarterback Josh Allen, head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane for the opportunity in Buffalo.
Claypool, a 2020 second-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers, began his career contributing right away, recording 1,733 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns in his first two seasons. However, the Steelers traded Claypool to the Chicago Bears during the 2022 season. The Dolphins acquired Claypool from the Bears the following year, and he appeared in 19 combined games in Chicago and Miami.
The Notre Dame product showcased his skills early in his NFL career, but has since developed a history of sliding down depth charts and experiencing short stints with new clubs.
Now, Claypool waits for his next NFL challenge. He could potentially get a call from a team seeking more depth when training camp begins in a few weeks or in the wake of any injuries once practices get underway.